Asking daycare teachers to babysit

When did you start doing this? Did you wait until DC was no longer a student in the teacher's class? I know at least some of the teachers babysit outside of the center, but wasn't sure what the norm was for this.

Also, maybe I am a freak, but does anyone else feel a little weird about it? Obviously, I trust them, or DS wouldn't be there all day, but it's something about my worlds colliding that I am having a problem with. In the end, I will probably end up asking someone there, since we really don't have much in the way of babysitting and we need to get out more without the baby.

TIA!

Re: Asking daycare teachers to babysit

All of Alex's babysitters have been her teachers. I usually ask one of the younger ones, usually an assistant.

It came easily - she bonded immensely with one of the younger teachers in the infant room, so I asked her to babysit and she was thrilled to help out. She has been Alex's babysitter since she was about 4 months old, goes to all her birthday parties, calls me regularly to check up on Alex, and even calls once in a while to ask if she can see her.

It's just amazing having someone whom I trust implicitly with her, other than family.

Re: Asking daycare teachers to babysit

There is one teacher who Sophia absolutely loves and she also babysits, she told DH. At first I felt it was strange, but then I thought it would be perfect. Sophia loves her and she is a very sweet girl. If the in-laws were not able to watch DD, we would have no problem asking the daycare teacher.

We just haven't had the chance to use her yet-hopefully soon

Message edited 5/19/2009 9:58:44 AM.

Re: Asking daycare teachers to babysit

Anyone else?

thanks for the replies!

Re: Asking daycare teachers to babysit

I felt like my son was dating because we would have phone numbers when my mom picked him up.

The best way I found to approach it is to say "I was wondering if you know anyone who does babysitting on the side because we're looking for someone." unless you're afraid they'll pass your name on to the freaky teacher. Otherwise, just ask if they babysit on the side.

They all had their rates worked out so everyone was the same ($11/hr). If it became a regular gig, they would lower it a little.

It is a little of world's colliding but once you get to know them & get a good babysitter, you won't care at all. In fact, you'll have your spy at the daycare because they will tell you things you won't hear when you're picking up your child.